When it comes to bucket list bowhunts, wild hogs are relatively inexpensive and a ton of fun. But don't make the mistake of thinking your standard deer gear will get the job done.

Rare is the bowhunter who doesn’t want to target wild hogs at some point. Those who do usually find out pretty quickly that they are unlike any other critter we can hunt.

For starters, hogs are universally tough. Even the youngsters cling to life in a way that makes other critters look like pushovers.

Hogs are covered in thick, coarse hair and built like compact bulldozers. A bowhunter’s margin for error on all hogs is slim but becomes a razor-edge when dealing with boars, especially mature ones. Bruiser boars are outfitted with a slab of cartilage in their shoulders commonly referred to as the “shield.” Hit this with most whitetail arrow/broadhead setups and you’ll feel as though you’ve shot into an oak door.

Go Heavy for Hogs

This is the reality of hog hunting, which means you should consider your arrows before making the trip. Heavy finished arrows in excess of 450 grains are a solid starting point. This may seem like overkill, but you’re looking for every penetration advantage you can get.

Broadhead choice is another important consideration. If you’re shooting enough draw weight, you simply need to choose a well-built head with thick, sharp blades. Anyone pulling lower draw weights should choose a compact fixed-blade head with scary-sharp and stout blades. At the other end of your arrow, consider a lighted nock so you’ll be able to see exactly where your arrow impacts.

Bowhunters who don’t draw a lot of weight should choose a compact fixed-blade broadhead with scary-sharp blades.

Practice plenty with your pig arrows. And be sure to study a diagram of a hog’s anatomy so you can do what is most important as a bowhunter: put the arrow right where it needs to go. If you take these steps, you’ll increase the margin of error just enough to ensure your best chance of returning home with a cooler stuffed with fresh pork chops.

Editor’s note: For more on wild hogs, be sure to check out Bowhunting World Editor-in-Chief Jace Bauserman’s article, “Wild Hogs, A Must-Hunt Species.”